Tech Announces Major Gift From SBC
November 17, 1999 | Football
Nov. 17, 1999
? Stadium Renovation Photo Gallery
LUBBOCK, Texas - The Texas Tech University System today announced plans to begin renovation of the 40-year-old Jones Stadium thanks to a $20 million boost from SBC Communications Inc., parent company of Southwestern Bell.
The renovation effort, which begins following Saturday's home finale against Oklahoma, positions Texas Tech athletics, the university and the entire Lubbock community for a strong, competitive future among the top tier of Division I athletics. Also, it will transform historic Jones Stadium into one of the finest football facilities in the country.
"Texas Tech and the entire Lubbock community are grateful to Southwestern Bell and SBC Communications for turning the dream of the stadium renovation into reality," said Texas Tech University System Chancellor John T. Montford. "Thanks to Southwestern Bell, our university students, faculty and alumni will be able to enjoy a first-class, state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a showplace for Lubbock and all of West Texas."
"Southwestern Bell applauds Texas Tech University for its longstanding commitment to preparing tomorrow's leaders with a high-quality, well-rounded education," said Edward E. Whitacre Jr., SBC's chairman and chief executive officer. "We are honored to help kick off the stadium renovation effort, which should provide long-term benefits in terms of academic funding, student recruitment and economic development for the community."
"Stage One" renovation plans include:
* Expanded men's and women's restroom facilities
* New concessions for food and memorabilia sales
* Addition of 232 handicap accessible seats and 232 companion seats.
"Stage Two" renovation plans include:
* Replacing the current press box with an expanded three-level press box with luxury and club seats
* Expanding the seating bowl with 8,318 seats
* Expanding the south end zone building to provide additional administrative space
* Addition of 21 luxury suites
* Redesigning the exterior in traditional Spanish Renaissance architecture.
Chancellor Montford underscored that this contribution was the latest in a series of gifts by Southwestern Bell to the university, including $10 million from the SBC Foundation for Texas Tech to use for scholarships and endowed chairs.
"SBC and Southwestern Bell officials have given their money, their time and their commitment to making this university the best it can be," said Montford. "I thank them personally for their generosity today and in the past. Today's announcement is good news for the Texas Tech family, our students and all of West Texas."
Texas Tech University Board of Regents and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board have approved a budget of $72 million for the entire stadium renovation project. The university is seeking additional funding sources for this renovation effort.